Premier Tom Marshall says it is taking time to set up the public consultations on its review of fracking in Newfoundland and Labrador, which were promised about six months ago.

The government put a temporary hold last November on any applications for hydraulic fracturing. While the temporary moratorium involves the entire province, much of the public's focus has largely been around Gros Morne National Park.

Premier Tom Marshall says it will take time to set up a review on hydraulic fracturing. (CBC)Last week, 20 community and environmental groups joined forces in western Newfoundland to put pressure on the government to finish the review.

Marshall said there are a lot of questions that need to be answered before that can happen.

"Government is giving consideration, right now, as to how to conduct the public engagement [including] who will do it," Marshall said.

"We want it done properly and we want it done based on science. There is [are] no decisions made. It has to come to government for a final decision. We are listening and we will make a decision."

Groups calling for the review say it's necessary to determine the effects of fracking on health, the environment and the tourism and fishing industries.

Marshall said the province has the best oil industry standards in Canada, and will only support economic development if it's done in a safe manner.